The Atlanta Hawks have made another significant move, continuing their roster reshuffling by acquiring David Roddy from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for E.J. Liddell. This trade is particularly notable as it marks the second team switch for Liddell in under a month. Initially brought into the Hawks' fold as part of a multi-player trade from Ohio State, Liddell's tenure in Atlanta looks to have been short-lived.
Liddell's Brief Stint in Atlanta
E.J. Liddell, originally drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft, experienced a whirlwind series of transactions. On July 6, as part of a significant deal that sent Dejounte Murray to New Orleans, Liddell came to Atlanta. The Hawks also received two first-round draft picks as part of the package. Despite the fanfare surrounding his acquisition, Liddell participated in only eight games for the Hawks, seeing limited playing time. His averages of 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per game during the summer league hinted at potential, but it seems the Hawks have decided to move in a different direction.
David Roddy's Journey
David Roddy's path to the Hawks is equally interesting. Selected as the No. 23 overall pick by Philadelphia in the 2022 NBA Draft, his rights were subsequently acquired by Memphis. Roddy's rookie season was spent between Memphis and Phoenix. During the 2023-24 season, he played 65 games, starting in 13 and averaging 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. Roddy’s performance showed glimpses of promise, scoring in double figures in 18 games and matching his career high with 10 rebounds in two separate contests. As a starter, his averages improved to 11.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. His summer league performance was particularly strong, where he started in five games for Phoenix, posting averages of 14.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.
A Continuing Trend of Moves
This trade continues Atlanta’s strategy of dynamic roster management. Along with the acquisition of Roddy, the deal that initially brought Liddell to Atlanta also included Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and Cody Zeller. Additionally, the Hawks secured a 2025 first-round pick and a conditional 2027 first-round pick, underscoring their commitment to building a competitive squad for the future.
As the dust settles on this latest exchange, the implications for both teams remain to be fully realized. For Liddell, landing in Phoenix offers a fresh start and potentially more playing time, given the Suns' recent adjustments in their roster. For Atlanta, Roddy’s versatility and proven ability to step up as a starter could provide necessary depth and impact as they aim to make a meaningful playoff run.
Ultimately, only time will tell how these trades will shape the respective futures of the players involved and the teams that acquired them. As the offseason churn continues, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching for further moves that could alter the landscape of the upcoming NBA season.